UK drivers forced to ‘crawl’ as motorways hit frustratingly slow levels

UK motorists are facing a sluggish drive as major motorways and A-roads record the lowest speeds seen in four years. The latest analysis indicates that vehicles on local A-roads are trundling along at a mere 23mph, marking a decline of 1.7 percent from the previous year. Furthermore, the Strategic Road Network, which comprises motorways and key A-roads managed by National Highways, has experienced a downturn to an average of 55.9 mph, showing a 1.9 percent dip since last year. The Department for Transport[1] (DfT) released these figures, presenting an ongoing reduction in road speeds[2] throughout England.

Commenting on the blow to drivers last year, Simon Williams, RAC head of policy, expressed concerns, branding the data as "worrying". He identified traffic volumes as a contributing factor to the increasing delays, despite the total miles driven remaining slightly beneath the pre-Covid-19 figures. "This latest data appears to show that right across England, average speeds on major roads are down and delays are up, both year on year and compared to before Covid." Williams remarked, reports Birmingham Live[3].

Get all the latest money news and budgeting tips from Chronicle Live with our free newsletter[4] Attributing to various likely causes beyond just rising traffic, he added, "While an increase in traffic volumes is no doubt a factor in delays increasing, it can't be the only cause so we suspect other factors are likely to be contributing, whether that is roadworks[5] or just traffic snarling up at known pinch points." Reflecting on the impact of these disruptions, Williams said, "Whatever the cause, delays can be frustrating and costly so we look forward to further details from the Government about where it is focusing its road spending for the duration of this Parliament."

A representative for National Highways[6] acknowledged: "We know delays are frustrating but a number of factors contribute to slower moving traffic." They added, "The make-up of vehicles on the road is changing with more HGVs and larger vehicles together with fewer cars. This brings average speeds down."

The spokesperson also noted that "Roadworks are only in place where it is absolutely necessary.

Our programme of improvements will result in long term benefits for motorists - shorter and more reliable journeys as well as safer and smoother roads."

They concluded by saying, "This work will help boost the economy."

References

  1. ^ The Department for Transport (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
  2. ^ road speeds (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
  3. ^ Birmingham Live (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
  4. ^ Get all the latest money news and budgeting tips from Chronicle Live with our free newsletter (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
  5. ^ roadworks (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
  6. ^ National Highways (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)

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